This colorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad is packed with fresh veggies, tasty olives, and crumbled feta cheese. It’s a great mix of flavors that’s both refreshing and filling!
This dish is perfect for warm days or picnics. I love how I can whip it up quickly and enjoy leftovers for lunch—talk about an easy win in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and adds a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, you can use rice or quinoa instead—both will still give great results.
Chickpeas: Packed with protein, they’re a great base. If you want a different texture, try black beans or edamame for a twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: Use a mix of colors for a fun look. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can work—just drain them well and reduce the salad’s moisture.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are usually sweeter. If you want more crunch, feel free to substitute with bell peppers or zucchini.
Feta Cheese: If you like cheese, crumbled feta adds a tangy flavor. If avoiding dairy, try vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the lactose.
How Do I Ensure My Orzo is Not Overcooked?
The most common mistake is cooking the orzo too long. Here’s how to avoid mushiness:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil before adding the orzo.
- Follow package instructions for cooking time, typically around 8-10 minutes. Start checking one minute early.
- Once done, drain and rinse the orzo under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it perfectly al dente.
By following these steps, your orzo will maintain a nice bite, making your salad even better!
Easy Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow if desired)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus slices for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the orzo and gathering your ingredients, plus another 10 minutes mixing and chilling if desired. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step will help keep the orzo from getting mushy. Set it aside to cool.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, drained chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and chopped basil. Stir everything gently to mix them well without breaking the tomatoes.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing will add a lovely flavor to your salad!
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Make sure every bit gets that delicious lemony goodness!
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Sometimes a little extra zing from lemon makes it perfect!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your salad with lemon slices and a few additional fresh herbs if you like. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s lovely as a light lunch or a great side dish next to grilled meats or seafood.
This vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Salad is not just easy to make but also delicious and healthy—enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions about Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is a great choice for this salad, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like macaroni, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Mediterranean Orzo Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits! Just give it a stir before serving again, and you can add a splash of lemon juice to freshen it up.
Can I Add Additional Veggies or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or feta cheese for added protein and flavor. Just remember to adjust the dressing to match!
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or sides throughout the week. Just wait to add delicate ingredients like fresh basil or diced avocado until you’re ready to serve.
